Canada earns redemption, China their first gold

BEIJING (Reuters) - Canada earned redemption and China
their first Olympic rowing gold medal on the shimmering waters
of Lake Shunyi on Sunday.

In a repeat of four years ago, the Canadian men's eight
entered the Olympic regatta as world champions and favorites
for the blue-riband title.

In Athens they crumbled and finished fifth. In Beijing they
held on for gold in a thrilling finale to the Olympic regatta.

"Although it looked like we were ahead and in control, we
were in constant fear the entire race," said Adam Kreek. "We
were just pushing back that fear and turning that into a
positive mentality. That was the secret.

"With five strokes to go, our cox Brian said 'five more
strokes and we are Olympic champions' and then the joy started
flowing through the veins.

"Athens was never in the picture. It was all about seizing
the moment. Today is an absolutely incredible day."

China also had plenty to celebrate at last.

The hosts, who had previously only won two silvers and two
bronze Olympic rowing medals, entered as strong favorites in
several events after heavy investment in the sport and a couple
of successful years. But by the end of Saturday's racing they
had only managed one silver.
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